Ringmaster . Newcity Chicago . 11-23-98

Ringmaster

DIRECTED BY: Neil Abramson

REVIEWED: 11-23-98

Released alongside Jerry Springer's hardcover memoir "Ringmaster!", the movie "Ringmaster" stars talk-show host Jerry Springer as "Jerry Farrelly," the host of a Jerry Springer-like talk show called "The Jerry Show." Director Neil Abramson (whose credits include the 1996 Sundance hit "Without Air" and the North Ugandan documentary "Soldier Child") brings a surprisingly observant style to a project that reeks of shameless, self-serving schlock. There's a little flacking for Singer's so-called populism, but Jon Bernstein's script thankfully mocks that pose. Ever cynical, Singer lampoons his own preachings with non-sequitors like: "Just because it's happening on TV doesn't mean it's not happening in reality." Trashy lust brings two batches of guests together to appear in "Jerry" episodes titled "You Did What With Your Stepdaddy?" and "My Traitor Girlfriends." Blowjobs ensue. Cartoonish "boing!" sound-effects signal below-the-frame erections. Nicely shot, this hybrid docudrama outstrips the cheesy look of Springer's television show and the cheesy layout of his book, while the movie's semi-literate press kit preserves the downscale demographic of Jerry's world. "Ringmaster" oozes its own odd integrity in sticking to the roundelay of exploitation cheered by Springer's circus.

--Bill Stamets

Capsule Reviews
Ringmaster
Ringmaster

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